T h e C ava l i e r
D O R M A N
H I G H
S C H O O L ,
R O E B U C K ,
S C
V O L .
What’s Inside...
5 3
I S S U E
Wrestling Preview (p.8) Getting and Keeping an A (p.10-11) How to Stay Healthy (p.13) Fantastic Beasts Review (p.16)
N O . 3
D e c .
2 016
Inside the Cavalier
December 2016
@Dorman 3 Volunteering 4 Future Classes 5 Athletic Opportunities Page 4
Junior Editors
Sarah Biggerstaff Eva Patnoude
Layout Editor Joye Smith
Sports Editors
Tylen Fowler Cole Kennington
Content Editor Haley Mainville
Profiles
6 Mr. Urban 7 Mrs. Atkins
Sports
8 Wrestling Preview
Features
9 Theater Spotlight 10-11 How to Make and Keep an A
Photo Editor
Hope Culbreth
Webmaster
David Hawkins
Staff Writer
Hampton Ford
12 13 14 15
Entertainment
Gift Giving Staying Healthy Christmas in the Upstate Holiday Foods
Reviews
16 Fantastic Beasts Review
Page 14
The Cavalier welcomes and encourages any and all letters to the editor. All letters are subject to editing for libel, grammar, content, and space. Letters should be signed and brought to Mrs. Gallman in room B105. Some material is courtesy of American Society of Newspaper editors/MCT Campus High School Newspaper Service. Discriminations of all persons is prohibited with regard to the provision of educational opportunities and benefits on the basis of race, color national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability in Spartanburg County School District Six as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendment Act of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding discrimination policies: Mr. Gregory Cantrell, Title VI, VII, and IX Coordinator, and Dr. Allan Eggert, Director of Special Services, 1390 Cavalier Way, Roebuck, S.C. 29376.
Something More Than Simply Earning Points Haley Mainville content editor
A
re you in need of volunteer points for Beta Club, National Honors Society, Anchor Club, Astra Club, Gems, or other clubs? What about service hours to include on a college application? If not, maybe you’re interested in serving others. Why not help out? Here’s some options. Volunteering, taking time out of one’s day to serve others, is always an option. Maybe you’ve always wanted to, but you didn’t know where to go. Although I am sure there are many more, below are a few ideas. If the thought of serving the poor, hungry, and struggling members of our community warms your heart, consider volunteering at the Spartanburg Soup Kitchen located on 136 South Forest Street in Spartanburg. There, you can prepare food, unload donations, organize pantries, prepare children’s take-home bags, wash dishes, serve, and clean up. “It’s some people’s only place to eat, so it’s important to serve them,” said Rebecca Karban, junior. What about caring for furry friends? The Spartanburg Humane Society, located on 150 Dexter Road in Spartanburg, could use helping hands to walk and bath dogs, comfort cats, and help with fundraisers and special events. “I’m currently a volunteer. If you’re like me, more of an animal person than a people person, it’s a wonderful volunteer opportunity. I love it,” said Mary Hope, junior. Spartanburg County Public Libraries also have volunteer opportunities like straightening bookshelves. Headquarters is located on 151 South Church Street in Spartanburg, and the Cyrill Westside Library is on 525 Oak Grove Road in Spartanburg. “I love working with the kids, and I love the environment. It’s calming to go there for a few hours after school,” said Hope Culbreth, junior. The Hope Center for Children’s, on 202 Hudson L. Barksdale Boulevard in
Spartanburg, goal is to provide children a safe place from abuse and neglect; they try to meet the needs of the kids and their families. You could spend time with the children, tutor, and cook. “I would love to talk to them about their interests— kind of get their minds off of negativity,” said Amyaih Sarratt, sophomore. Maybe you have a strong urge to care specifically for the homeless. Miracle Hill’s Mission Statement is, “Miracle Hill exists [so] that homeless children and adults receive food and shelter with compassion, hear the Good News of Jesus Christ, and move toward healthy relationships and stability.” It is located on 189 North Forest Street in Spartanburg. Volunteers are allowed
to help with projects and events, prepare meals, and help children with homework. “Their mission to help others who are less fortunate is awesome,” said Maddie Harshman, senior. If you’re into construction, or plan to have a career based on constructing abilities, Habitat for Humanity may be the place for you. Not only will you be able to put your skills to work and practice, but in the process, you will be helping others put their lives back into place, giving them what every family needs— a home. Habitat for Humanity’s
mission statement is, “seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.” They’re located on 2270 South Pine Street in Spartanburg. Would you happen to have a green thumb? Volunteer at the Farmers Market on 498 Howard Street in Spartanburg. You could build gardens, plant, and care for crops. You also could help out with Saturday and Wednesday markets. What if you don’t have a green thumb? That’s not a problem! You can still help around the office with newsletters, data entries, and marketing. Chapman Cultural Center is also an option; they do expect volunteers with “friendly, dependable characters.” You can recieve opportunities and benefits when you’re a Chapman Cultural Center volunteer like attending shows for free. Depending on your abilities, different volunteer opportunities are available. Safe Homes for Rape Crisis Coalition, on 236 Union Street in Spartanburg, has available volunteer opportunities as well. The opportunities there also depend on your talents, and you meet new people and learn new skills. Do you want to get out of town for a day? Are you an animal person? Mrs. Revan, English teacher, specifically suggested Big Oaks Rescue Farm to volunteer at. It’s on 405 Emerald Road in Greenwood, South Carolina. There’s many ways to contribute to the Farm: care for the animals by feeding and grooming them, interact with visitors, and mow grass, mend fences, and clean stalls. Some of the volunteer opportunities may require background checks and may have age limits. Step out of your comfort zone. Make a difference in a world in need of good. Lend a helping hand. Meet new faces, learn new skills, and give your time to others who are in need. It can’t hurt to do so.
@Dorman 3
Students Suggest Future Classes At Dorman
Hampton Ford staff writer
S
chools need to provide a plethora of classes to allow students to test and obtain experience. A general education is worth very little when looking for a job because most people already have one, and economic value is based on supply and demand, so the more specialized the better. When looking for potential classes at Dorman, one doesn’t have to look far for diversity for a few unorthodox examples include. Introduction to Film, Photography, and courses at RD Anderson such as welding and car repair. There is even a law enforcement class for potential police! The need for new and innovative courses is also paralleled by the drive for excellence in classes already offered such as Advanced math, English, and science courses are taught at Dorman,. However, to provide workers compatible with South Carolina economic demands, classes must be relevant. The Inside of A Classroom One of the fastest growing and most lucrative fields, both in South Carolina and across the country, is in computer science. At the present, Dorman offers a handful of computer science classes which cover everything from programming to administration. Computer Science involves more than just programming; it needs project managers, designers, and people to interpret user feedback. Although there are a wide variety of classes, many students at Dorman feel they could be expanded upon. One student, Jordan Gallman, suggested that game design would be a really practical class. Junior Jake Wu said, “they should really have an
4 @Dorman
Introduction to Computer Science because the class goes straight to AP.” Many students say the class is difficult because there is little background information going in. Another student, Jake Henjes, said Dorman should offer “a fashion class” for trends and outfit coordination. He also suggested a class instructing people how to study properly, because many students have difficulty paying attention for long periods of time. These skills are timeless and can be used in college and work. Caleb Sewell said etymology, defined as the study of the origin of words and the way in which their meanings have changed throughout history, would be a useful preliminary elective for English classes. Knowing word roots would help students to figure out what unknown words mean, and expand their vocabulary would help students express more complicated ideas with articulation. Art by Zack Urban Sandi Boyle, a junior, recommended a class for American sign language. It would be very useful in real life helping people to communicate with handicapped students. She also suggested a course in Mandarin since it is a growing language and becoming a lingua franca in international business. A junior, Brianna Groulstan recommended a class for miscellaneous “life skills such as job interviewing and other adult skills like doing taxes.” The importance of offering an array of classes cannot be overstated as students’ goals can only be achieved by teaching the skills required to fulfill them.
D
orman high school boasts a widely renowned athletics program, so it makes sense that a wide variety of students want to get involved. Some Cavaliers, however, have physical or developmental challenges that lead them to believe they may not have a place on the field. Luckily, this isn’t the case. While some positions are simply not feasible, a little bit of creativity can go a long way in finding students with different abilities a way to help out. More able participants can help out with things like managing equipment, keeping water on hand, and running drills. All students, however, are qualified to help boost morale! Whether as an official member of teams or as a committed fan, the support of every student helps ensure that Cavalier athletes feel supported and can preform at their best.
Athletic Opportunity for Special-Needs Students at Dorman Eva Patnoude junior editor Cole Kennington sports editor
Brendon Patnoude, graduated 2016, pumping up the team All photos courtesy of Marci Patnoude
Brendon Patnoude celebrating with the team after the game
Brendon Patnoude, graduated in 2016, manages the Dorman baseball team. He has been assisting the team since he began attending the school three seasons ago. Brendon first got involved with the basketball and lacrosse teams, and made connections with different coaches. He offered to help out everyone he could, and built relationships with people involved in with the sports he was most interested in. When he’s at practices, Brendon tracks
down foul balls and helps to keep the player’s energy up. Brendon warms up left and right fielders, and sometimes takes batting practice. On occasion during scrimmages, Brendon gets to be a designated hitter. At games, he “keep[s] the team pumped up by getting loud and staying positive.” Brendon has the baseball management position well handled, but he thinks that there are plenty of other opportunities for students with different abilities to help out.
Brendon Patnoude rounding third during the Halloween fun-game
“People can be managers, water boys/ girls, super fans and statisticians,” he said. Many students would like to participate in activities like these, but don’t see a clear path to being a part of the team. Brendon’s advice for these students is to “get to know people, talk to the coaches, have school spirit, show good character and sportsmanship, and always be willing to work hard.”
@Dorman 5
“Do What You Love; Love What You Do”
Showcasing the skills of Dorman teacher Mr. Urban
E
ncouragement can lead to continuation of a hobby. Luckily, Mr. Urban’s parents always pushed him to do art. Art has always been Mr. Urban’s passion, but it was his high school art teacher who made him aspire to be an art teacher. He desires to give back to his students what his art teacher gave him — inspiration to create beautiful art. Mr. Urban said,“I was very fortunate that both of my parents always encouraged my
Hope Culbreth phtography editor
piece. The majority of his work has an acrylic paint base with different materials on top. Mr. Urban believes art should be completed by using whatever material necessary to make clear the concept of a piece. Mr. Urban tries to do creative work outside of school as often as possible. Occasionally, his work is displayed in galleries or up for sale. A few of his pieces are displayed at the Carolina Gallery on West Main Street. Mr. Urban stated, “Carolina Gallery has been a longstanding center of art in our community so it’s an honor to be one of their gallery artists.” Art, by Mr. Urban’s definition, is about seeing real images and translating those realistic images the way the artist perceives it. Plenty of objects or concepts are missed in society, and an artist’s job is to present them — to make the unseen visible. An artist’s work allows people to see things in a new light.
Photo taken by Hope Culbreth Mr. Urban assisting Layfette
artistic pursuits. Neither of my parents were artistic so their encouragement means that much more now looking back.” Art can be a learned and can also be a natural talent. Mr. Urban, for example, believes all children love art; however, along the path to adulthood, many lose interest. As an art teacher, it is his job to nurture a child’s creativity. Though his job is to assign students art projects, he still works on his own, looking to nature’s beauty for inspiration. His art is mostly landscape based but not in the traditional sense of grassy hills, shining sunlight, and rippling water. Mr. Urban said, “As an art teacher I try to help facilitate my students finding their own artistic path for who they are as artists.” Most of his work is mixed media, meaning he uses different art materials to create one
6 Profiles
A piece of Mr. Urban’s work titled “Policy”.
Photo courtesy of roberturbanart.com
Mrs. Atkins Helps Students Overcome Obstacles
Hope Culbreth photography editor
D
oes your childhood and lifestyle influence your career? For Mrs. Atkins, a Dorman grad and a special education teacher at Dorman, the answer is
State History. Seeing the encouragement her students gained when they figure something out, and realizing they can do things, yes. is what Mrs. Atkins enjoys most about her teaching career. During her childhood years, she dreamed of being a Her students often feel discouraged when they are unable teacher, and her brother’s reading disability influenced her to understand concepts, and watching them come to the decision to become a Special Ed realization they can understand instructor. something is very rewarding. Mrs. Atkins’s parents raised Her brother had similar struggles. her and her brother in Woodruff. He would often feel embarrassed Fishing, gardening, playing outside, and discouraged, but he never let his and performing in Symphony were disability get in the way of success. common hobbies for her family. Mrs. Atkins wants all of her students to After earning her diploma from feel those same achievements. Dorman, Mrs. Atkins followed her Her students Cole Kennington dream by going to Wofford where she and Tyleigha Carman agree that Mrs. received her Bachelor’s degree in three Atkins is a likable person. years and then earned her Master’s Kennington said, “She is stern, but degree from Converse. she is also fair.” Carman called Mrs. This is her nineteenth year teaching Atkins “friendly, loving, and caring.” and her thirteenth year teaching at Mrs. Atkins teaches her students Photo taken by Hope Culbreth Mrs. Atkins interacting with student Cole Dorman. Before Dorman, Mrs. Atkins individually modifying her material to fit Kennington. taught at Laurens Elementary School. each student’s pace and level. A typical This semester she teaches English and math, and next day for her consists of merely that: making sure each one semester she will be teaching English and South Carolina achieves the highest goal their abilities allow.
Could this be the Cavaliers’ Year?
T
Tylen Fowler sports editor
he Cavaliers are looking to have a promising year after being named the number one team in the state by the South Carolina Basketball Coaches Association’s preseason poll. Last year, the record was 11-12 overall with a region record of 8-6. Since there were several young and inexperienced players, it was a rebuilding year for the Cavaliers. This year, the Cavaliers are in a new 5A class and are looking to be the first 5A state champs. They will have some fire power as they have several players returning. The Cavaliers are off to a good start, finishing second in the fall league tournament and winning the Impact Sports Invitational Thanksgiving Tournament. Center Tae Cannon earned tournament MVP and guard Zach Butler earn alltournament. The team won their first home against Westside, 78-65, as well. The Cavs were hot behind the arc with 13 three pointers.
Photo by Tylen Fowler Cavaliers after a win.
Freshman Myles Tate accounted for eight of the thirteen three pointers, finishing with a game-high twenty-four points. “It just felt like I was getting opportunities. My teammates were looking for me. I’ve never had a night like this,” Myles said. Myles had hit six three pointers in the first half and accounted for half of the point 36-22 advantage at halftime. Zach Butler had twenty while Gabe Bryant recorded a double-double 12 points and 13 rebounds. Bryant had some words after the game: “I felt like we got out, and got the job done; I’m proud of my teammates. I wanted to do my part. I needed to get rebounds. I feel like we’re getting better defense wise.” The Cavaliers certainly have improved on their shooting and are much more physical. It may be early in the season, but the Cavaliers are looking to make a run at this title and are on a great path to it toward it.
Profiles 7
Dorman High School Wrestling Prepares staff writer For State Championship Hampton Ford
Dorman Wrestling Match
W
restling is a sport that requires a lot of skill to compete because it is something that everyone must be taught, so no one is cut from the team unless there are outside issues. The season starts in November and lasts until February, for a total of 4 months. Technique is a critical part of wrestling, but without having enough strength to control one’s opponent, it is almost useless. For this reason, most wrestling begin strength training even before their season begins. Benefits of strength training are numerous: stronger bones, less injuries, and provide confidence. Competitors are divided in weight classes to provide an even match, but sometimes people choose to lose weight for easier competition or to fill a spot on the team. By the same token, they can try to gain weight to move up to a division for harder matches. The sport teaches mental toughness, perseverance, and technique. Wrestlers are expected to show up to practice every day and play through pain. The team’s season thus far has been good, but one is never certain how far they will get because of unexpected factors like injury or something as simple as just having a bad day. The team has a good chance at making state.
8 Sports
Photo by Ed Overstreet
Competition is a major part of the sport, even within the team because varsity is determined by matches between teammates with Wrestle Offs. Wrestling is fairly simply in its scoring system. Points are awarded for takedowns, or taking your opponent to the mat. They are also rewarded for escaping a takedown or reversing the position to take the advantage. A near fall is when one almost has its opponents pinned. On the flip side penalty points can also be dealt out if a player uses illegal holds although it is not always penalized. Forcing someone off the mat or going off will also “earn” these points. Unsportsmanlike conduct and unnecessary roughness can also merit this demerit. Although it is a fairly popular sport, many people are not sure how to get involved in wrestling, but Kameron MartinAskew said he got involved by trying it out and growing to “[enjoy] it and [become] more invested it the sport.” Another wrestler, Joshua Aquino, said he joined because he liked “watching [his] older brother.” Smaller people shouldn’t be afraid to join because wrestling is divided into weight classes. There is an individual State Tournament, but if the team does well enough then there is a possibility for the team to win State.
Spotlighting
Diligent
Work
of the
Theater Department
By Haley Mainville content editor
Z
Furthermore, the theater department offers plenty of ooming in on Dorman’s Theater, we can see that, behind the scenes, hard work, determination, and opportunities for students to pitch in. Anyone can participate in afterschool hours even if they’re not in a theater tremendous effort exists. Performers and backclass. Many positions are offered: acting, running the stage crew restlessly work in order to reward themselves sound board, operating spot lights, painting sets, designand their audiences with well-organized, talent-filled ing sets and costumes, and helping with hair and makeup. performances. Don’t let shyness hinder you from participating. Carley Just as most after school activities, theater is timeBallard, sophomore techie, says even consuming, but if it’s what you though she’s not an actor, her particilove, like our current theater pation in theater has helped her cope Cavaliers, looking past those with anxiety from being very shy. long hours is easy. Usually, Dorman theater is also competitive! rehearsals are after school from They participate in the South Carolina 3:45 p.m. to 5:30 p.m..— not Theater Association and Piedmont that bad, right? When it’s closer Dramatic Association. At these two to performance time, rehearsals competitions, shows are performed. are from 5 p.m.. to 9 p.m.. South Carolina Theater Association “The process can definitely be includes a Tech Olympics as well. stressful, but the reward of an If you’re not interested in stage audience’s reaction, especially performing, at least consider comfrom kids, certainly makes the ing out to watch the performance of hard work worth it,” said Jared Death by Dessert in February and Medlock, senior assistant stage Shrek the Musical in April. Auditions manager. will be coming up soon as well. Not only do theater students “It’s a little nerve racking, but seepractice on school grounds, but ing eight weeks of hard work manithe lengthy scripts require them fested on stage, the audience being to work even after they leave. entertained, and enhancing a story According to Aleena Calicutt, Photo by Haley Mainville from behind the curtain is exciting. junior actress and techie, that’s Drawing of theater mask also by Mainville. The energy from the green room on not a problem. opening nights is infectious,” said Calicutt said, “memorizing Christel Hendricks, junior stage manager. scripts allows us to become Theater one, two, three, and four and technical theater someone else, so it’s very enjoyable to do— nothing like are available as classes. homework.” Besides, work doesn’t feel like work if it’s what you love.
Features 9
Passing the Class: E
veryone has a class that seems impossible to pass. You start to feel like every test just proves how little you know about the subject, and no matter what, you fall short of getting an A. But, and you heard it here first, passing that class is possible. Maybe you’re having trouble paying attention in class, and this is being reflected in your grade average. This is common in classes that don’t interest you, so try to pick classes that do appeal to you. However, sometimes you have to take a course whose subject matter you aren’t interested in. In this case, getting a good night’s sleep and eating breakfast each morning are vital to having good mental focus during morning classes and keep you from getting sleepy during afternoon classes. Doing all of your homework prior to the day it is due will allow you to concentrate on the class you’re in rather than worrying about getting it done before the due date. Sitting in a seat where you can pay full attention to the teacher is also important to keep focused during class. If it is a class where you can choose where you sit, try not to sit with people who will only distract you from the lesson. If the class has assigned seats, talk to the teacher if you are sitting in a place where you either can’t see or can’t concentrate. Again, taking classes that pertain to your major and peak an interest will not only allow you to focus more during class, but also make you more likely to want to understand the material and do more work outside of class. You’ll also be more excited about coming to school each day and be less likely to make up excuses to skip class or “take a sick day” if the classes you have signed up for genuinely interest you. There are many different approaches to studying for difficult classes, and a strategy that works well for one class may not be the best strategy for another. We’ve talked to different students on how they prepare for the classes they struggle with and have come up with some studying hacks for any problem class. One method of studying is drawing diagrams. This technique tends to work best with topics that can be paired with visual learning.
Usually, science classes have the most subject matter to make use of different diagrams. Biology, for example, discusses different cell cycles, and drawing diagrams of these cycles would help those who learn best when they can picture what is going on. Another good practice for those who learn visually is to color code notes. Many classes give quizzes based on what day the subject was taught, so color coding by day helps people to differentiate what each section of their notes focuses on, and they are able to center studying time around what they need the most help with. This approach could be used in almost any class for those who do better with connecting topics to something visual. If remembering different chemistry or math equations are part of what is giving you trouble, it helps to get extra practice. Most teachers give out homework that include practice problems, so doing the assigned homework definitely helps to succeed in trouble classes, or if the subjects is math, the textbook is full of practice problems. If neither of these are the case,you can request worksheets from the teacher, and as far as checking to see if your work is correct, teachers are always available to help and many are happy to work with students, especially if it is evident that you’re trying to succeed in their class. Similar to this approach, making flash cards or writing down key parts of the notes helps with memorization. Even in a heavily application-based class, knowing key parts of the notes will help with your overall understanding of the subject. “I study [the notes] a little bit each night so I don’t forget the material,” Morgan Roddy, sophomore, said. Some students learn better by studying in groups. Working with others is especially effective if the class is primarily focused on obtaining an in-depth understanding of each concept. By studying in a group you have an easy access to people who can explain the subject. These students often have an easier time explaining points in layman’s terms, or more easily understood terms, than the teachers who haven’t had to truly work through the subject matter in years.
A Word From the Teachers:
Mrs. Colwell, who teaches English at Dorman, feels that kids face one of two setbacks when it comes to education. “They [either] expect perfection, she said, or they have a hard time finding the motivation to get required work done. Mrs. Colwell’s advice to overcome these barriers and see success in her class is to read over what was done in class that day, study any notes taken, and even look up and read different summaries on literary works to clear up what is happening behind the elaborate wording. She believes that Photo By Sarah Biggerstaff any grade which was earned through genuine effort is one that Katie Colwell reflects success.
10 Features
from to matter in years Maybe you’re the person who has a better understanding of a certain topic than the other members of the study group and you are the one who has to walk everyone through what is giving them trouble. This is also a great way to study and develop a better understanding of the class material because being this person requires having this kind of knowledge. There are a few major drawback of study groups: finding a good place to meet, getting a time that everyone can meet, and picking a good group of people to study with. Fortunately, these are issues with very simple solutions. Many restaurants and coffee shops allow paying customers to use their WiFi and seating for groups of people who want to study together. Panera bread, Starbucks, the Coffee Bar, and, as a completely free option, the Spartanburg Library are all great places to meet and each of these has a quieter atmosphere for better focus while studying. Both Panera Bread and Starbucks have locations on the East and West sides of Spartanburg, while the library and the Coffee Bar are only located on the Eastside, and one benefit of these locations is that they all have free WiFi. An important aspect to picking members of a study group is to keep the head count small. Having a group of four or five as opposed to ten or twelve will increase productivity, eliminate distractions, and make it easier for the whole group to be able to meet at once. Choosing who will be a part of your study group is hard because people tend to want to include everyone, yet if the group is too big it is almost impossible to get everyone on the same page. Make sure you pick people who you know you work well with and don’t worry about leaving people out. There are plenty of study groups to go around for everyone who needs one. Tutors are another great resource, but some classes require tutors with pretty high hourly rates. Peers can be equally as knowledgeable as a tutor and considerably cheaper. Additionally, they usually remember learning the topic, which provides a helpful perspective expert tutors and teachers struggle to provide. In addition to these strategies, there are some little tricks to focusing or even remembering
Photo By Sarah Biggerestaff Stephane Vernet
real quick
Sarah Biggerstaff & Eva Patanoude co-junior editors
what you studied. An important thing to keep in mind is that teachers are always available and happy to help. The addition of Remind101 to most classes curriculums provides a way to quickly and easily contact teachers with questions on homework. Even sending the teacher an E-mail to set up a time to meet is a viable option in getting help outside of the classroom. For people with trouble keeping focused, maybe try studying when you feel the most alert. Whether it’s in the morning, right when you wake up, or it’s right after school. This approach to studying is all about knowing yourself and what time of day you are the most awake and aware, but it is very effective and can be paired with almost any of the previously mentioned studying habits. Being hungry can also make paying attention difficult, so having a pre-studying snack may improve the quality of your session. There’s a reason many people choose to study in the calm of coffee shops and libraries; geography is important when you’re trying to study. If you’re aiming to get some serious work done, then, it’s in your best interest to choose a place conducive to learning. Find a table or a desk in a quiet room, try to keep it well lit, and eliminate anything that will distract you from your immediate vicinity. Unfortunately, that means you should probably leave your phone in another room. We’ve all been there: you plan to cram hard for tomorrow’s math test, and then someone Snapchats you. Before you know it, you’re scrolling through your feeds and Netflix starts calling your name. If you leave your phone in the kitchen, you’ll get your work done in quarter of the time. Jack Bingham, junior, finds that his house is the best place to study. “I go home and look over the material for a test.” Some students believe that chewing the same flavor of gum while studying and while testing helps to remember what they’ve studied, and also think that this helps to focus as well. Use any of these tips for any level class, CP to AP, to give yourself the advantage in any problem class
Mr. Vernet teaches history and AP microeconomics. He told us that because many of his classes are college level classes, he tries to teach his students a “higher level of independent learning.” This type of learning tends to trouble students because they are so used to being given all the information. Mr. Vernet is an advocate for students asking questions about anything which gives them trouble. He recommends studying in 30 minute intervals to keep from overwhelming your mind with information. If a student leaves Mr. Vernet’s class having learned something to help them in the long term, he believes that student has succeeded in his class.
Features 11
A Guide to
Gift Giving T David Hawkins webmaster
he holiday season represents many things: the coming of Winter, the end of the first semester, and the search for the perfect gift. It’s very easy to give money or a gift card to someone, but it also involves very little thought or sentiment. Although, some people really do enjoy receiving gift cards. Brittany Evans, a sophomore, said gift cards “allow her to get exactly what she wanted” rather than ending up with something she didn’t want. In a situation of receiving an unwanted present, it feels bad to tell the gift giver their gift was not what you wanted. However, many people enjoy gifts more if they were bought just for them. A gift card could be given to anybody, but personal gift sends a more thoughtful message. In this article, you’ll find a guide to help you tailor your gift to fit the recipient’s wants or needs. The first key to giving the perfect gift is to be attentive. Pay attention to this person’s interests and things they already have. For example, if they like a certain musician, find out if the musician has recently released an album. Does this person already own a copy of the album? Maybe there is a T-shirt or bracelet they might like that you haven’t seen them wear before. Another great gift is to take a trip or do an activity with the person. Maybe you could set up a scavenger hunt related to their interests at a place like Westgate Mall or Barnet Park. If scavenger hunts aren’t your thing, maybe you could treat the person with something else such as a picnic, bowling, or a meal at a restaurant. A trip or scavenger hunt doesn’t have to pertain to the recipient’s interests, but make sure they will still have a good time. If you go out to eat, you don’t want to pick a restaurant the person would not enjoy. If you can’t find something unique related to their interest, you can make them something. It can be as simple as a card or as intricate as a poem or drawing. Sometimes a gift made by you is the best gift because you invested a fair amount of your time and effort into it. In terms of how much you spend on a gift, it doesn’t really matter. An expensive gift might be impersonal, while a gift that cost you nothing could be the best gift the person has ever received, or vice versa. Price should not be a determining factor in your decision.
12 Entertainment
Photo by Sarah Biggerstaff Pictured left to right, Emily Hammett and Nathan Hulsey (Juniors) exchange gifts.
Ultimately every person has a different taste in gifts. Abigayle Hatcher says that the best gift she’s ever received was a Barbie doll house. Hailey Woodward’s favorite gift is her horse. The best thing you can do to decide what the person will truly love to relieve this Christmas is paying attention to them and knowing what they like. Ask yourself, “does the person prefer possessions or sentiment? Do they enjoy fine arts or sports? Movies or music? Having an awareness of what the recipient enjoys and what they value in a gift will pay off this Christmas season. While this may not be a definitive guide to giving gifts, it should help you while you search for the perfect present.
Healthy Eva Patnoude, junior editor
Colds and Flu
Many people take winter as a reason to got into “hibernation mode” and lay around for a few months, but there are plenty of ways to keep moving in the winter! Try ice skating, making up an exercise game to
S
A
ay
St
2 3
in
Wash your hands as often as reasonable possible: many people overlook this hygeine law, but keeping your hands clean is the easiest way to keep from tranferring bacteria you pick up when you shake hands, turn doorknobs, etc. into your eyes and mouth. Go to bed: your body has a more difficult time fighting off illnesses when it’s already tired. Work out and eat healthily: maintaining a well-balanced diet with a variety of nutrients and staying active help to boost your immune system. Drink, drink, drink: if you’re already sick, it’s extremely easy to become dehydrated, particularly if you’re vomiting. Failing to rehydrate will make you weaker, and your chances of getting well will go down. Sneeze into the crook of your elbow, rather than into your hand. This helps you to avoid getting germs to your eyes, mouth, and nose, as you subconciously touch your face to your hands far more often than you do to your elbow. Take some down time: during times when you’re either trying to avoid or recover from an illness, it’s best to give yourself some time to recover from day-to-day stress on your body. No Running around all day will leave your person body weaker and less able to defend in his/ itself. her right mind Remember to wash would advise against your bedheets and consuming a healthy dose pillowcases: they touch your of Christmas cookies, and neither face and hands for hours will the Dorman newspaper staff. at a time and will As a more sane alternative, we suggest just hold onto germs paying attention to your likely increased sugar and re-infect you intake. over and over Don’t swear off your grandma’s famous eggnog and if not your favorite gingerbread cookies because, in the words cleaned. of junior Emily Failkoff, “that will only make you crave them more, and more likely to overeat them later.” Instead, aim to be more mindful of what you consume. Pay attention to and appreciate the sugar, spice, and everything nice that comes with the season, rather than absent-mindedly popping candy
g
1
ct iv
e
chools are a particularly volitile breeding ground for illnesses, with so many people eating and breathing in a close proximity. Furthermore, students travel from class to class during the day. This means that if one student in a fist-block class comes to school, four classrooms will have been exposed to whatever germs that student left behind by the end of the day. Ergo, students have a good chance of catching a flu or cold during the winter. According to health.com, people can greatly reduce their risk of contracting or spreading a sickness by following several simple steps:
4
of
ro
-P
kie
N
io rit ut
canes into your mouth one after another. According to sophmore Hailey Wellmore, that wont only increase your chances of packing on some unwanted holiday weight, “you won’t even really enjoy the foods.” Combine a bit of reason and some light exercise with this strategy and you should be good to go from November to February! Make sure to eat a balanced diet in addition to your sweets (cutting back on healthy foods will only lead you to increase your sugar intake) and get outside or to the gym.
n
7
oo
6
C
5
coordinate with your favorite Christmas movie, or going for a chilly walk to check out the local Christmas lights! Doing so will help keep you from feeling sluggish from all the gingerbread cookies and candy canes you’ll be eating!
Entertainment 13
Christmas in the Upstate I
Joye Smith design editor
n South Carolina, the upstate is full of events lights display. It costs $25 for cars, $40 for mini that can get you into the Christmas spirit, buses, and activity vans, and tours and school including Christmas lights, parades, ice skating, buses are $80. and other events for the holidays. Skating on the Square is on Morgan Square The annual Hollywild Lights Safari is in Downtown Spartanburg, and it is open on located in Wellford, South Carolina outside of Monday through Thursday 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 Spartanburg. General Admission is $6.00 per p.m., Friday from 12:00 to 10:00 p.m., Saturday person and allows the customers to visit Santa’s from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Sunday from village, warm up around a bonfire, and to see and 12:p.m. to 8:00 p.m.. The cost is $10.00 and touch the animals. For $10 per car, Hollywild includes the skates. It’s a perfect, close by activity allows people to drive through the Enchanted with a group of friends or family. Deer Forest and hand feed animals, including Downtown Greenville has United Community more than deer: geese, zebra, antelope, and cows. Bank Ice on Main this time of year. This is Nearby, in Greenville, there’s the Roper open from November 18, 2016 to January 16, Mountain Holiday 2017. They’re open Lights. They are Monday through open through Thursday from 2:00 December 30th p.m. to 9:00 p.m., from 6:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday to 10:00 p.m. At from 11:00 a.m. Roper Mountains, to 10:00 p.m., and you can walk Sunday from 11:00 through the “Winter a.m. to 9:00 p.m.. Wonderland” or Children ages 12 and drive through under are $8.00 per another set of lights. child which includes Close by, in skates. For adults, Greer, is the Turner it costs $10.00 per Family Christmas. person including This includes skates. 300,000 lights that A Dickens of a Photo by Joye Smith Christmas is another are synchronized to music as well. Also, Skating on the Square in Downtown Spartanburg. holiday activity in Santa comes to see the children while they are Downtown Spartanburg on Tuesday, November enjoying the lights show. 29th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.. This event Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is located at includes live Christmas music, carolers, horsethe Heritage Park Amphitheater in Simpsonville, drawn carriage rides, and the lighting of the South Carolina. This Christmas attraction Christmas tree at Denny’s Plaza. This will be the includes a petting zoo, two bounce houses, carols, 23rd annual A Dickens of a Christmas festival food, and more fun for the entire family. There which is truly unique to Spartanburg. is an area that cars can drive through to see the
14 Entertainment
Greatful(l) and Thankful(l) at the Holidays T
hanksgiving food favorites were just all shared with family and friends. According to Smithsonian, the first Thanksgiving had very different food than what we are used to today: wildfowl, corn, venison, bread, and porridge. Today, we have dishes such as ham, turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Sophomore Montel Thompson said his favorite dish would have to be ham because of the sweet taste. These dishes have been added and changed as years passed. While goose and duck were considered the main dishes then, turkey is common today. Pilgrims would roast and boil the birds and were thought to have stuffed the bird with onions and herbs instead of bread. Native Americans and pilgrims also enjoyed clams, mussels, and lobsters on Thanksgiving day. The forest provided chestnuts and walnuts, along with beans, pumpkins, and squash that were grown. The History Channel claims that vegetables such as lettuce, cabbage, carrots, and possibly peas were included in the
Joye Smith design editor
Thanksgiving feasts. Fruit like blueberries, plums, grapes, gooseberries, raspberries, and cranberries were included as well. Many of the dishes weren’t cooked the same as we cook them today for Thanksgiving. For example, they didn’t make relish because they didn’t have sugar, and corn would have been made into corn mush. Today, Thanksgiving has all kinds of food. Tables usually have green beans, lima beans, sweet potato casserole, macaroni and cheese, corn, mashed potatoes, rolls, and gravy. Dessert dishes usually contain pound cake, pecan pie, pumpkin pie, and chocolate cake. Junior Jack Bingham said, “My favorite food at Thanksgiving dinner is the stuffing and pecan pie. My brother and I weigh ourselves before and after the meal to see who ate the most.” We all have a favorite Thanksgiving dish we want served at our holiday dinner table. Sophomore Grace Vandergrift said, “my great grandma’s dressing is my favorite dish on Thanksgiving. My family usually eats together for the meal.”
Photos by: Haley Mainville, Joye Smith, Sarah Biggerstaff, and Eva Patnoude Thanksgiving food from Dorman students’ tables.
C
Eat, Drink, and be Merry
hristmas time, as well as cold weather, brings in special food and traditions. Starbucks unveils their holiday cups and advertises their peppermint mocha, chestnut praline latte, and caramel brulee latte beverages. They also have a special list of handcrafted holiday beverages such as the eggnog latte. These drinks are perfect for the weather this time of year. Senior Anan Zattam said, “my favorite Christmas food is hot chocolate and candy canes because it goes well with the cold weather.” During the holidays, many people will make their own recipes for holiday goodies. Families often make Christmas cookies using holiday cookie cutters along with green and red icing. Treats include peppermint bark, chocolate covered Oreos, and chocolate covered pretzels. Junior Emily Hammett said that her mom makes cranberry relish, and they have a variety of Christmas cookies for the holidays.
Another popular holiday treat is gingerbread houses. Stores have kits with frosting and assorted candies to decorate the edible homes. Gingerbread house kits can come in all different sizes from a village to a single home. Junior Jack Sallis said that for Christmas, he goes to his grandparent’s house where they have a fire going and eat caramel cake. Stores also begin carrying candy canes, more hot chocolate, special cookies such as the Pillsbury Holiday Cookies, and many more food items. Many families have a big meal at some point on Christmas day. Some people have breakfast while others have a large meal later in the day. Junior Ben Weaver said his family has a big breakfast on Christmas day containing all kinds of breakfast foods. Senior Tanner Ivey said, “my mom makes some of the best cherry pie, turkey, and ham for Christmas day.”
Entertainment 15
Fantastic Beasts and Where to find them
Eva Patnoude junior editor
On November 18th, 2016, the latest JK Rowling-based movie came out in theaters. Unfortunately, the Harry Potter series has come to a close, but this film marks the start of a new path for the magic world. Anyone who has read the novel shouldn’t be too surprised by the “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” as the movie, in true Harry Potter fashion, stays very true to the original plot line. However, people who haven’t read the book may want to stop reading this article now, if they wish to be surprised. The story follows Newt Scamander, a youngish British wizard (read: the accent everyone has come to love through Harry, Hermione, and Ron), as he travels to 1920’s America to free one of his exotic magical creatures in his natural habitat. However, Newt’s seemingly simple plans (smuggling an illegally brought Hippogryph through Ellis Island and then across the States to Arizona) quickly go awry. Shortly after making his way through the borders, Newt accidentally exposes his creatures and his magic to a stubborn and intelligent American witch and an inordinately adventurous no-maj, the American slang term for muggles. Exposing magic to a no-maj is against the law in the states, but so is owning magical beasts. Thus, when Newt’s many flying, thieving, and disappearing pets escape, he opts to keep his new no-maj friend, Jacob, unobliviated (aka with his memory intact) in order to help him recapture them before the Wizard law-makers/ enforcers catch him. The pair get help from the witch Newt met, Tina Goldstein, and her sister Queenie. Meanwhile, a new wave of anti-magic, Salem-like muggle club members are protesting in the streets of New York against the evil magicians they believe are causing unexplained catastrophes such as collapsing buildings and giant trenches forming in the middle of roads. The leader of the group is a cruel woman named Mary Lou Barebone. She has a plethora of children living in the orphanage she operates, whom she isolates from the rest of the world and forces to be her servants and pushers of her intolerant beliefs. Furthermore, Mary Lou abuses her children both verbally and physically, routinely insulting them and frequently beating them with belts, books, etc. None of the children are treated quite so badly as the oldest boy, a quiet, angry young man named Credence. He continually seems to feel out of place and disgruntled by his life. Contrasting him is a young girl, maybe ten or eleven, named Modesty. She wholeheartedly embraces the anti-witch and wizard movement, even singing songs about murdering magical people as she plays. Flash-scenes of the discussions of members of the Magical Congress of America, law-making magicians, inform readers that the aforementioned bizarre disasters are indeed the work of a witch or wizard, a child who has been repressing his or her abilities for too long, and occasionally bursts into an uncontrollable, menacing monster. The audience is left to believe that Modesty is likely this child, as she is the right age. Soon, however, chaos erupts for Newt, Tina, the Congress, and the no-maj characters in the tale, as corruption within the Magical Congress threatens Newt and his creatures as well as anyone in connection with the recent catastrophic events. Thus, the safety of all people living in New York City is left at the new friends’ feet. Many moviegoers, previous to seeing the film, had worried that it would seem like a lesser version of the Harry Potter movies; after all, what could compete with the series that defined a decade? However, this new brainchild of JK Rowling is unique enough to stand on its own, and isn’t excessively similar to the first series. The film, scored 7.8 by IMBD, has received very good reviews, and is appropriate for most older children and adults, rated PG-13.